Power Line Technician and Instructor – Chris
Ushering in the next generation
Chris Goertzen has taken his experience as a power line technician to usher new recruits into the business.
Being a line technician himself, Chris Goertzen knows the job's challenges and rewards first hand. Goertzen is a power line technician and instructor on the south construction crew in Weyburn. It's one of two training crews building lines around the province and where line trade recruits go to learn the ropes.
After graduating from high school in 1993, Goertzen completed his power line apprenticeship in Weyburn while working for a contractor. After 10 years on the road, SaskPower hired Goertzen in 2003.
Initially a temporary employee, Goertzen quickly received a permanent position. Five years later, he moved into his current role.
"For me, training is a great way to pass off some of the skills I've been taught over the years," says Goertzen.
Hard work, math and positive attitude
While he loves his job, he says being a power line technician isn't for everybody.
"It's a very physically demanding job. There are a lot of demanding jobs out there, but this job requires you to work at the top of a power pole with two spikes strapped to your feet to stop you from falling," he says.
And it goes beyond hard work. Learning the power line trade takes commitment and dedication.
"Line school requires you to work hard, and with the math and physics involved, a good education is a must." Goertzen notes a big part of the job is having the right attitude. "If you come in with a good attitude and you enjoy your job, everything else will be good from there," he says.
Why SaskPower?
This job requires you to work at the top of a power pole with two spikes strapped to your feet."
The reward is definitely worth the effort for those who make their way through training, explains Goertzen.
"SaskPower is a great company to work for. The benefits and pension plan are good, the work is satisfying, and you build great relationships and meet good friends."
